Trade unions and farmer organisations have launched a nationwide Bharat Bandh in 2026, with participation of approximately 30 crore workers, potentially affecting banking, transport and certain government services while essential services continue to operate.
Call for Nationwide Strike
Trade unions and farmer organisations across the country called the nationwide Bharat Bandh in protest against the policies of the central government. Approximately 30 crore workers are participating in the strike, which may affect banks, transport services and some government functions.
All India Trade Union Congress General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur stated at a press conference that participation in the strike would be higher than previous actions. She said that at least 30 crore workers would take part in the strike scheduled for 12 February. In a protest held on 9 July 2025, approximately 25 crore workers had participated.
Kaur said the strike would affect activities in more than 600 districts, compared to around 550 districts during last year’s protest. She stated that the protest was against what she described as the central government’s "anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate policies."
The joint platform said farmer groups, agricultural labour unions, students, youth organisations and other federations were supporting the strike. It stated that the impact of the strike would also be visible in states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party. Odisha and Assam are expected to remain completely shut, with participation anticipated in large numbers in other states.
Sectors Likely to Be Affected
During the Bharat Bandh, work is likely to be affected in several sectors. Notices have been issued in government departments, public sector companies, industrial clusters and private offices. Campaigns have been conducted at district and block levels in both rural and urban areas.
State transport buses and auto services may be affected due to the strike. Markets, wholesale mandis and shops are likely to remain closed. Services at public sector banks may also be disrupted.
Status of Essential Services
Despite the wide impact of the strike, certain essential services will continue to operate. Hospitals, ambulance services, medical stores and essential health services will function as usual. Airports and air services will operate normally. Private offices and ATM services will remain open.
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has extended full support to the strike. Agricultural labour unions will focus on the resumption of MGNREGA. The impact of the strike may be felt in rural areas, while essential work will not be disrupted.
Historical Context of the Strike
The Bharat Bandh forms part of protests that have taken place over several years. In July 2025, approximately 25 crore workers participated in the protest. This time, participation is estimated to reach 30 crore.
AITUC and other trade unions stated that the strike is aimed at protecting the rights of workers and farmers. They said the central government’s policies have ignored the interests of the general public and agricultural labourers.
Impact on the Public
Members of the public may face inconvenience during the Bharat Bandh. Government work and banking services may be delayed. Disruption in public transport services may require individuals to use personal vehicles or alternative transport.
Closure of markets and wholesale mandis may affect purchasing activities. However, essential health and emergency services will not be disrupted, ensuring assistance remains available in critical situations.
